Maybe

Author: Yamada Kobi

Brand: Compendium

Format: Picture Book

Number Of Pages: 40

Details: Review

Being human comes with many perplexing questions. But sometimes asking those questions opens the doors to a path, if not a straightforward answer. Written by Kobi Yamada and illustrated by Gabriella Barouch, Maybe is an inspiration tucked inside an adventure, perfect for readers of any age who may be asking, What next? Loosely following the journey of a little girl, who is fancifully clad in a leafy bird cap, Maybe s art is intrinsic to its message. Barouch s vibrant, detailed illustrations are unusual and delightful. Dreamlike and intriguing, her art defies convention; mushrooms may loom as large as trees, and glaciers might fit comfortably in your hand. Pulling readers further into her journey, the little girl more a reader s companion than a character helps create the fantasy, watering giant flowers, building a tower of houses. In a final lyrical nod, Barouch carries elements from page to page, culminating with an image that will leave readers smiling. Maybe is an invitation instead of a lecture, as Yamada delivers his message with simple, brief statements that keep the story moving. And while the book s images are imagined and invented, there is honesty in each depiction. When the little girl fails, a scribble hangs over her head. She climbs inside a storybook and befriends the unfamiliar. It would be a disservice to qualify Maybe as just a children s book. Children of all ages have dreams pulling them along, destinations and goals to meet along the path. But what truly matters is who we are along that journey. –Jill Lorenzini, Book Page

PreS-Gr 2-A gentle, imaginative read brimming with positivity. Intricate illustrations in soft colors depict a child and their pet pig frolicking among whimsical scenes of the natural world. Straightforward prose with no more than a few sentences on each page encourages children to develop a creative, adventure-seeking spirit. Yamada invites readers to reflect on the possibilities within themselves and to stay resilient in the face of adversity. The lack of plot and emphasis on inspirational messaging make this book more likely to resonate with adults than with children, but young audiences will undoubtedly appreciate it in their more reflective moments. It makes a lovely bedtime read and a welcome baby shower gift, and it could be used in elementary classrooms to prompt a discussion about compassion and kindness (“Maybe you will help others see the beauty in each day?… Maybe you will speak up for those who can’t speak for themselves?”). VERDICT Stunning illustrations and uplifting themes make this volume a solid purchase for large picture book collections. –Allison Tran, Mission Viejo Library, CA

A young child explores the unlimited potential inherent in all humans. Have you ever wondered why you are here? asks the second-person narration. There is no one like you. Maybe you’re here to make a difference with your uniqueness; maybe you will speak for those who can’t or use your gifts to shine a light into the darkness. The no-frills, unrhymed narrative encourages readers to follow their hearts and tap into their limitless potential to be anything and do anything. The precisely inked and colored artwork plays with perspective from the first double-page spread, in which the child contemplates a mountain (or maybe an iceberg) in their hands. Later, they stand on a ladder to place white spots on tall, red mushrooms. The over-sized flora and fauna seem to symbolize the presumptively insurmountable, reinforcing the book’s message that anything is possible. This quiet read, with its sophisticated central question, encourages children to reach for their untapped potential while reminding them it won’t be easy they will make messes and mistakes but the magic within can help overcome falls and failures. It’s unlikely that members of the intended audience have begun to wonder about their life’s purpose, but this life-affirming mood piece has honorable intentions. The child, accompanied by

Release Date: 15-09-2019

Package Dimensions: 12x312x530